CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is an initial qualification for people with little or no previous teaching experience and opens up a whole world of exciting teaching opportunities. Because it is awarded by Cambridge ESOL, part of the world-famous University of Cambridge, you can rely on its quality and recognition. More than 12,000 people successfully complete a CELTA course each year.

WHO CAN TAKE THIS COURSE?

People starting a career in English language teaching

You may be considering a career in English language teaching and view CELTA as an entry into a good teaching position in another country. Alternatively, you may be a graduate wanting a qualification which provides a sound basis in the fundamentals of language teaching practice. CELTA has given many candidates the confidence to take control in the classroom.

People looking for a career change or career break

Increasingly, CELTA candidates are professionals either looking for a new career opportunity or wanting a short break in their existing career. Many seek the exciting opportunities of living and working outside their own countries. Whether you wish to teach English for the short- or long-term, CELTA gives you the training you need to help you adjust to a dynamic and challenging new profession.

People teaching English without formal qualifications

CELTA can also be a useful qualification for teachers who have little previous formal training. CELTA sharpens your teaching practice, confirms your ability, and may even lead to internal promotion or a better teaching position.

People who want to work in Further, Adult and Community Education in England and Wales

CELTA is also the first phase of the level 5 Diploma in Teaching English (ESOL) in the Lifelong Learning Sector. This qualification is required by teachers who wish to work in this sector in England and Wales.

WHAT DOES CELTA INVOLVE?

You can take CELTA full-time (typically four to five weeks) or part-time (from a few months to over a year). Your chosen course:

Teaches you the principles of effective teaching

Provides a range of practical skills for teaching English to adult learners

Gives you hands-on teaching practice.

There are five main topics:

Learners and teachers, and the teaching and learning context

Language analysis and awareness

Language skills: reading, listening, speaking and writing

Planning and resources for different contexts

Developing teaching skills and professionalism.

You will be assessed throughout the course, with no final examination. An external assessor, appointed by Cambridge English, moderates each course.

There are two components of assessment:

Teaching Practice

You will teach for a total of six hours, working with classes at two levels of ability. Assessment is based on your overall performance at the end of the six hours.

Written Assignments

You will complete four written assignments: one focusing on adult learning; one on the language system of English; one on language skills; and one on classroom teaching.

CERTIFICATE

To be awarded the Certificate, you must pass both components. There are three passing grades – Pass, Pass ‘B’ and Pass ‘A’.